Ana Vetau once envisioned a career in the hotel industry, but her life took a different path after marrying and assisting her husband on the farm. She discovered a newfound passion for farming, particularly enjoying the process of growing and selling her produce at the market.
At 35 years old, Vetau, a resident of Narata Village in Nadroga, is well-known for her boiled corn sales outside the Suva Municipal Market, near the bus stand. She acknowledges that life is rife with challenges but emphasizes that hard work is key to achieving success.
“After completing my Form 6, I enrolled in the School of Hospitality because I always dreamed of working in hotels,” Ms. Vetau shared. “I even did my attachment at Marina Apartment in Lami. However, after marrying in Nadroga, I joined my husband on the farm.”
Farming has become more than just a job for Vetau; it has become a cherished hobby. “I was born in Namosi and have always enjoyed farming. Joining my husband on the farm has brought me joy,” she said. “There’s a sense of pride and satisfaction when I harvest my crops and sell them in the market. I understand that hard work is essential for success in any field.”
However, she also acknowledges the challenges that come with farming. “Our main challenge is the weather and climate change impacts. Floods and droughts severely affect our produce, and sometimes everything we plant gets washed away,” she explained. “We must ensure a steady supply of crops to maintain consistent income, and when we run low, we sometimes buy from other farmers to sell.”
Despite the difficulties, Vetau finds numerous benefits to her lifestyle. “We have fresh vegetables, and working on the farm keeps us healthy,” she noted, adding that her four children also help out at times.
Vetau encourages others to make the most of their land. “People should not let their land go unused. Use your land for planting; you’ll reap the rewards. It’s gratifying to see your hard work pay off, and it inspires me to keep going. Young people, especially those struggling to find jobs, should consider agriculture as an option.”